Belgium Dominates Group G Finale
Belgium secured their place in the World Cup 2026 knockout stages, finishing as Group G winners after a commanding 5-1 victory against New Zealand in Vancouver. The win, their first of the tournament following two draws, saw them top the group on goal difference. This result sets up a round of 32 clash for the Red Devils against a third-place finisher from either Group A, E, H, I, or J.
The match, played on Friday, saw Leandro Trossard score twice, contributing significantly to Belgium’s emphatic performance. The Arsenal forward’s goals were complemented by strikes from Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Alexis Saelemaekers, ensuring Belgium’s progression to the next phase of the competition.
Belgium displayed clear dominance throughout the game, registering 35 shots against New Zealand, who are the lowest-ranked side in the tournament and have now been eliminated after finishing at the bottom of Group G. The victory means Belgium avoided consecutive group-stage exits from the World Cup.
Key Moments and Goal Scorers
The breakthrough for Belgium came in the 28th minute when Leandro Trossard capitalised on a corner with a poacher’s finish. His second goal arrived just five minutes into the second half, a fine chest and volleyed effort that doubled Belgium’s lead. Trossard had earlier come close to an opener in the 12th minute, with his left-footed strike hitting the inside of the far post.
Kevin De Bruyne extended Belgium’s lead with a superb low strike. However, New Zealand managed a consolation goal in the 84th minute through Elijah Just, momentarily pushing Belgium into the runners-up spot. This shift was short-lived as Romelu Lukaku, coming on as a substitute, headed in just 64 seconds later to restore Belgium’s three-goal advantage.
The scoring was completed in stoppage time by fellow substitute Alexis Saelemaekers, who added Belgium’s fifth goal. This late strike solidified their position at the top of Group G. Earlier in the match, Belgium had a penalty overturned in the 22nd minute after a VAR review determined that a handball by Surman, blocking Trossard’s shot, was in a natural position.
Managerial Reactions and What’s Next
Belgium manager Rudi Garcia expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, particularly highlighting the contributions of his experienced players. He noted that while they haven’t won anything yet, progressing to the next phase as group winners, thanks to a four-goal difference, was a positive step. Garcia emphasised his trust in his players and leaders, stating that their answer came on the pitch.
For New Zealand, manager Darren Bazeley acknowledged the challenge of facing Belgium. He suggested that the team had hoped to secure points in their earlier group games, which they failed to do. Bazeley noted that while his team tried to get back into the game, they were punished multiple times. He expressed optimism for the future, believing that many of his players would return in four years’ time, having learned from this experience and improved.
The victory means Belgium will now face one of the best third-placed teams in the round of 32. Their next match is scheduled for Wednesday, July 1, with a 9pm UK time kick-off in Seattle. The outcome of the other Group G match saw Egypt draw 1-1 with Iran, with Egypt qualifying in second place and set to play Australia in Dallas on July 3. Iran, with three points and a neutral goal difference, also have a strong chance of reaching the round of 32 via their third-place finish.
The performance of Kevin De Bruyne was particularly noted, as he delivered a significant contribution after being relatively quiet in Belgium’s first two group matches against Egypt and Iran. His goal for Belgium’s third demonstrated his enduring touch and vision, despite his peak years reportedly being behind him. The midfielder’s strike from 20 yards was a highlight of the match.
The atmosphere at BC Place in Vancouver for the match was described as relatively subdued compared to previous World Cup games at the venue, despite the reported attendance of 52,497. This match was the fifth World Cup fixture in Vancouver.
The discussion also touched upon striker options for Belgium, with Romelu Lukaku’s performance against Iran raising questions. However, his immediate impact from the bench against New Zealand, scoring just 64 seconds after coming on, reaffirmed his value. Charles De Ketelaere of Atalanta was mentioned as another potential option up front for manager Rudi Garcia.
Belgium’s progression to the round of 32 marks a successful end to their group stage campaign, culminating in the 5-1 win over New Zealand on Friday.
Read Also
Source: skysports.com
Harry Loxley is a Senior Football Correspondent at NewsGB.org. He spent his early career reporting East Midlands football. He focuses on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from the University of Derby and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Derby, he watches non-league and runs a fan podcast. “Good football writing follows the people, not just the points.”